Introduction
A heart-wrenching incident that claimed the lives of at least 31 individuals has brought Pakistan Railways under scrutiny. The derailing of the Hazara Express in Sindh's Nawabshah district has prompted a six-member inquiry team to release preliminary findings, shedding light on the factors behind this tragic mishap. This article delves into the initial report's revelations, shedding light on the reasons for the derailment and the ongoing investigation.
A Chain of Events Unveiled
The Hazara Express disaster unfolded tragically as the train, en route from Karachi to Rawalpindi, derailed close to the Sarhari railway station in Nawabshah district. The initial inquiry findings pointed to a broken rail, a missing fishplate, and damage to the track as the key contributors to the derailment. The absence of the fishplate and track damage are highlighted as pivotal elements in the incident's unfolding.
Inquiry Team's Conclusions
The six-member inquiry team from Pakistan Railways issued a report attributing the derailment to a combination of factors. A fractured track, the lack of a fishplate, and even the locomotive's sliding were found to have played a role in the tragic event. The report raises concerns about the train engine's departure without thorough inspection by higher authorities. Notably, the presence of a "small hitting spot" on the iron fishplate and wooden sleepers away from the accident scene has prompted accountability within the engineering and mechanical divisions.
Impact and Aftermath
The disaster left over 120 injured individuals seeking treatment at the Peoples Medical College Hospital in Benazirabad. Most were discharged after receiving medical care, but 30 people continue to receive treatment. The remains of 29 victims have been claimed by their families, while two unidentified deceased individuals await recognition at the hospital. The calamity's aftermath has raised urgent questions regarding railway safety and oversight.
Differing Perspectives within the Team
As is common in complex investigations, the inquiry team held contrasting viewpoints regarding the incident's causality. One member argued against the preliminary findings, asserting that the missing fishplate, broken rail, and spread gauge led to the derailment. Conversely, another member attributed the disaster to an engine axle jam, resulting in scratches on the fishplate and subsequent bolt fracture.
The Path Forward
The released inquiry findings mark only the beginning of a thorough investigation into this heartrending tragedy. The federal government's railway inspectors are meticulously examining the scene to ascertain the root causes of the derailment. The preliminary nature of the study underscores the need for comprehensive analysis and underscores the commitment to unraveling the truth behind this devastating incident.
Conclusion
The Hazara Express derailment stands as a somber reminder of the critical need for stringent safety measures within Pakistan Railways. The initial findings of the inquiry shed light on the missing fishplate, damaged track, and a series of complex factors contributing to the disaster. As the investigation continues, it is imperative to await the comprehensive inquiry's results, which will help identify systemic improvements to prevent similar tragedies and ensure the safety of railway passengers.
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